Still confused on coffee chats

Rising sophomore at a semi-target school studying finance and accounting (double major), have been networking religiously since the start of summer in preparation for recruiting season this upcoming fall. I've had 8 calls with different people, and 4-5 went very well, as in a great call, great conversation, etc. The part I'm confused about is what's next? Am I supposed to be having one call with them and then follow up a few months later when I apply? What do I say to them when I follow up as I am submitting applications? How many chats should I be having per person to maximize my chances of a referral? Should I mention a referral after a couple of good calls? How would I mention that and go about it? 

Am I overthinking this? What are your thoughts?

2 Comments
 

If the firm has a core school recruiting team get to know them and ask for introductions to others on the team in a measured way, or ask if it makes sense to get connected to others on the team; these are generally the people that will be weighing in on whether or not to advance you. If the firm does not have a school recruiting team ask to be plugged into the non-core team and would suggest following same path. You want to understand how candidates are selected for an interview, who weighs in on those decisions at the respected shop, and make sure you are on those people’s radars. That would be my suggested follow-ups as well as keeping in touch and inquiring if anything else helpful as they evaluate your candidacy. Wouldn’t make it too frequent or unnecessary as that can play to a negative. 

 
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